Loggia dei Lanzi, Florence

Loggia dei Lanzi is an arched gallery in Piazza della Signoria created in the 14^th century.  It was built to protect the nobility and wealthy citizens from any kind of weather during events and meetings.  Today it is used as outdoor museum for statues. 

It was originally built by Italian architects Benci di Cione Dami and Simone di Francesco Talenti from 1376 to 1382.  The name for this Gothic style gallery derives from the guards of Cosimo I who were named the Lanzi. 

The art collection consists of Renaissance and Roman sculptures and statues.  The statues were placed here in 1494 when the city of Florence removed the Medicis from power.  To recognize and praise this important turning point, many statues by Donatello were moved here. 

Today, many more sculptures are found here which represent mythological and ancient events and figures.  A visit to the Loggia dei Lanzi is great for any visitor!

Loggia dei Lanzi

Piazza della Signoria, 50121 Florence, Italy